Aim of Preaching

Importance of Preaching's Aim

• Confusion about what preaching is trying to accomplish.
• Many differing opinions in literature regarding preaching's purpose.
• Historical context: Augustine's influence on homiletics.

Central Aim of Preaching

• Objective: To send a doxological community into the world through the proclamation of the gospel.
• Emphasizes sending over gathering; transforming community over mere attendance.
• Mission-focused, not just about building a church.

Doxological Community

• Definition: Community that glorifies God through its way of life.
• Practices, virtues, and habits reflect praise to God.
• Importance of authenticity in community; hypocrisy undermines the message.
• Example: Antioch as a model of a sending community.

Key Elements of Preaching's Aim

• Sending: Focus on how many are sent to lead others to Christ.
• Transformation: Impact of the community's character on the world.

Functions of Preaching

Confusion of Aim vs. Function

• The aim of preaching is often confused with its functions.

Four Main Functions

1. Teach

   • Impart knowledge and clarity on doctrine.
   • Teaching should be foundational to every sermon.

2. Save

   • Includes the entire Ordo salutis (order of salvation).
   • Focus on complete salvation beyond mere entry into heaven.

3. Heal

   • Physical and spiritual healing through the gospel.
   • Examples of miraculous healings as signs of God's power.

4. Free

   • Addressing injustices and breaking spiritual bondage.
   • Ministry of reconciliation is essential in this function.

Transformational Preaching

Power of Preaching

• Connects the message with the person and work of Jesus Christ.
• Must be gospel-centered, not merely moralistic.

Strategies for Transformational Sermons

1. Locate the Text's Place in Salvation History

   • Understand the overarching narrative of the Bible.

2. Discern the Fallen Condition

   • Recognize humanity's brokenness and need for redemption.

3. State Practical Applications

   • Application should reflect Christ's finished work, not just moralistic advice.

4. Point to the Finished Work of Jesus

   • Highlight God's redemptive actions in scripture as connected to Christ.

5. Expose Functional Saviors

   • Identify and challenge the ways people seek approval outside of God.

6. Show the Triune God's Active Redemption

   • Emphasize the role of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in redemption stories.

Conclusion

• Effective preaching honors God, transforms lives, and builds authentic community.
• Shift from a focus on being a better person to embracing the fullness of the gospel.